“Hook”ed - DCS

[sgt_lobo]

I have had DCS for many years and have spent periods of time enjoying it thoroughly.  Unfortunately, I’ve also taken breaks as I’ve struggled at times to break through the complexity of some aircraft and systems, and also the somewhat difficult time to maintain immersion without a “dynamic campaign”.  

Like all of you who have this game, I have spent WAY too much money buying add on modules (aircraft, scenery and campaigns) and I try to be more selective now.  I’ve also recently retired and have some more time to dedicate to learning systems, which is helping.

I have always enjoyed rotary craft (helo’s) and this game is no different. I also prefer to, and almost strictly, fly U.S. (or at least “allies”) equipment (that’s just my preference).  I am enjoying the CH-47 and it doesn’t disappoint in feeling like a large helo developed to move troops and cargo.  I am happy with the purchase.  

That being said, I also understand it’s in early access and things need work.  Some have said it was rushed and shouldn’t have been released now.  I recall thinking, just before seeing the release announcement as I downloaded the patch, “I wish they’d release it soon!”, and behold, they did (and I’m happy they did).  Some buttons don’t work, pilots and crew aren’t visible (internal view), I don’t know of a way to get guns in the helo yet, I can’t figure out how to easily be able to load troops or cargo on a simple mission I create, and other “things” aren’t implemented.  

I know there is a system to do cargo and most of my not understanding that is my fault I’m sure.  I’m hoping there will be a way to do the following: I create a simple mission, leaving airport/heliport A with troops (or cargo) and going to a designated landing area (waypoint 3, let’s say) where I want to drop the troops close to or within the front line.  They are seen departing my Hook and I take off and leave them to do their part in winning the war!  Maybe I return to that same heliport and pick up cargo boxes, which I take back and drop off to those same heroes!  I understand this may not have visible ramifications on the war at large and I know (due to watching the training mission) they will have a system where it does (ie. gas delivered to base gets picked up by truck and taken to radar vehicles, which allows them to operate and use their radars, which I think the players then see), I would still like to set up simple missions like I describe and “pretend” I’ve contributed.

I have lots to learn about the Hook and will need to be patient as they flesh the craft out.  I will need to learn about their system for cargo and such and this will be compounded by their new map mission planning and “dynamic campaign” system they will release soon “hopefully” (I’m waiting in great anticipation for the dynamic system).  By the way, I have concluded that nowadays, a portion of my enjoyment is solving the “puzzle” to know how to use the systems (and push random buttons to see what happens!).

I will keep in mind that I purchased an early access system and I’ll still enjoy it, learn what I can, perhaps pause for a while for patches or additions to be made, then return for a more “finished” product? Who knows, but I do like the helo (I seem to fly sideways fairly easily in this thing. Is that a good thing? )

Now, If I could only win the screenshot contest so I can get “money” to purchase the F4 Phantom without pissing off my wife!!!  

And, I detest the thought of the money I’ll spend when someone comes out with the A6 Intruder, the Blackhawk helo, and where does it end??!!!  

Lobo

Edited August 10, 2024 by sgt_lobo